Pakistan in driving seat

AUCKLAND, MARCH 10. A brilliant knock of 63 by Imran Farhat led Pakistan to a commanding 98 for three on the third day of the first Test against New Zealand on Saturday - a lead of 192 with seven wickets in hand.

Earlier, New Zealand managed just 252 and the highlight was the 111 runs partnership for the fifth wicket between Fleming and Craig McMillan. When these two were together New Zealand had a chance of nudging past Pakistan's 346, but once they went, it had no resistance to offer.

McMillan (54) and Fleming (86) both went to lazy looking shots. McMillan attempted a drive off Waqar and edged to Younis Khan in the slips, while Fleming attempted to off-drive a short ball from Saqlain and dragged the ball onto his stumps.

Parore offered some resistance and look good for his 32 not out, but he ran out of partners.

Debut boy Farhat's impulsiveness brought about his end as he attempted to loft Paul Wiseman but only hit a return catch to the off-spinner in the penultimate over of the day. At stumps, Yousuf Youhana with 17 and night watchman Saqlain Mushtaq (yet to score) were at the crease.

Farhat's maiden test half-century came in just 82 minutes off 64 balls and included eight fours. He dominated the bowling by hitting to all parts of the ground and only Wiseman's off-spin seemed to bother him.

With the pitch turning considerably and New Zealand have already suffered at the hands of Saqlain, who claimed four for 48 in New Zealand's first innings, skipper Fleming must be a worried man.

- Reuters

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